Backed by a hard-working fleet of Bobcat excavators and tracked loaders, NSW earthworks company Platinum Earthworx has kept its books full with demanding residential and commercial site jobs.
Alex Walker may be the founder and director of the Sydney-based excavation business, but it’s just one of many roles he carries out.
The jack of all trades is also an accounts manager, labourer, operator, estimator, truck driver, and even the washer and detailer when needed.
“As the owner, you have to be willing to do all the chores that need to be done,” he said.
Alex’s eagle eye for efficiency and determination to oversee all aspects of his operation have brought great rewards. Platinum now services the Sydney region and surrounding outskirts — not bad going for a company started about 11 years ago.
“We’re best known for our specialty in tight-access excavation. But we offer all types of excavation services, including projects on acreage properties, which are a strong focus for us,” he said.
“I’ve always enjoyed a challenge. Working in tight-access projects is a niche market that takes a lot of skills and patience.
“Because of how hard the jobs can be, there isn’t a lot of competition. So I knew that when I started my own business, I would have ample opportunities to be successful.
“I always wanted a family, and I wanted to build something that could provide a life they deserved. Owning a business gave me that freedom. Going out on my own was the first step toward that future.”
The Platinum fleet consists of an assortment of excavators, tracked loaders, trucks, and dumpers.
Pride of place is taken by four Bobcat machines, selected by Alex for their power, versatility, and manoeuvrability.
“These include a Bobcat E10 mini excavator, and two E20s,” he said.
“Our excavators are mainly used for the tight-access work that we are known for. The tracked loaders support heavier work and load-outs on residential and commercial projects, working alongside our larger machines.
“We work them hard on demanding projects, and they hold up well. I tend to keep my machines for a long time, and they’ve consistently proven their durability.”
Alex fondly remembers his first Bobcat, purchased from the Smithfield branch of Clark Equipment.
“My first excavator was an E20, which I still own. With more than 5000 hours on the clock, it’s still going strong and working on our projects,” he said.
“It has been the perfect machine for our needs — reliable and tough.
“It has a massive reach for a mini excavator, and the cab is comfortable, which is appreciated not just by me, but by my operators as well.”
Alex said that all the machines were purchased through Clark Equipment Senior Sales Representative Bob Liso.
“Bob has been amazing — always answering calls, always willing to help, and an all-round great person to deal with,” he said.
“Communication, service, parts, and support have all been excellent.”
“There’s absolutely no doubt that we’ll be back for more Bobcats. The E10 mini excavator is a real game-changer and is far more advanced than many other brands.”
Show and tell
Another indication of Alex’s perfectionism is demonstrated by his desire to custom wrap all his equipment in company livery and signage.
“When I build something, including my equipment, I want it to represent who we are: clean, tidy, respectful, and professional,” he said.
“First impressions matter. The way you present yourself is the way people perceive you.
“I’m big on keeping our fleet looking fresh, and the custom wraps make us stand out. People always remember the machines that catch their eye.”
Based on the feedback to the Platinum branding, the business has also launched an online apparel store.
“My wife and I created the store because a lot of people wanted our merchandise,” Alex said.
“I used to give it away for free, but between running the business, being on the machines full-time, raising our family, and looking after our animals, it became too much to manage manually.
“The store allows people to support us without me forgetting orders — and 100 per cent of profits go to the children’s hospital and homeless charities. It’s not about money for us; it’s about giving back.
“I was just a young kid who couldn’t do well at school, lost in knowing what I was good at, but found the love for machines.
“Any dream is possible if you’re willing to work hard for it.
“We aren’t the biggest earthmoving business and we sure aren’t the best, but I am proud of what my wife, Tay, and I have built together. She has fully backed any vision I have had.”